Alcohol

The excessive consumption of alcohol is known to be associated with health-related and psychosocial problems. Only, what exactly is excessive? The World Health Organization defines the amount in excess of which health problems may develop as an average daily dose of 20 g of pure alcohol (women) up to 30 g (men) or more. This corresponds to one to two drinks (depending on the beverage) in women or two drinks in men (1 drink contains about 12 g of alcohol).

The average Swiss alcohol consumer drinks about 11 g per day. 60% of the population drinks below the risk threshold (“moderate”), but 20% consumes a problematic amount; 5% are seen as alcohol-dependent. The consumption patterns are age-dependent.

“Problematic”” consumption can be drinking too much on a continual basis, sporadic binge drinking (intoxication), or consumption in inappropriate situations (traffic, workplace). Often, problematic consumption is kept quiet or treated as a taboo. Psychological comorbidities are often one of the reasons for drinking (“to unburden oneself,” “to calm down”). The consequences of excess drinking are as stressful for the family and environment as they are for consumers themselves.

The solution to problem drinking is not an “all or nothing” strategy—that is, abstinence. Successful approaches exist that work via reduced (“defined”) drinking (see links below). Although those affected and doctors address the topic of alcohol less often in consultations than other health topics, the doctor’s practice is a suitable location for providing screening in the sense of a short intervention or initial advice. The affected person is then looked after by specialist addiction offices or psychologists/psychiatrists. By using the “Health Coaching KHM” programme you enable patients successfully to take up counselling.